Scottish law firm McGrigors is considering a merger with Pinsent Masons.

If the merger goes through, the combined business would create the 12 th largest law firm in the UK by turnover.

Both firms confirmed on Thursday they were in merger talks.

Based on 2010/11 financial figures, the merger would create a business with 1,200 lawyers and turnover of s282.5 million.

In a joint statement issued on Thursday, the firms said: "We can confirm that Pinsent Masons and McGrigors have been in discussions about ways in which both firms can work together to look at how we can bring a wide range of legal services to our respective clients, as well as improve their delivery.

"Both firms complement each other well, being leaders in the field of construction, energy and infrastructure. A potential tie-up would greatly benefit the clients of both firms,providing a wealth of market-leading expertise across a number of sectors and practice areas.

"It would also provide a strong platform upon which to grow internationally, with a continued focus in Europe, the Gulf and Asia Pacific.

"We will be spending the coming days speaking to our partners and staff about the proposals and will not be making any further comment at this time."